We catch up with the cast and crew of Love Tea & Epiphany, currently shooting in Melbourne

The sisterhood – Carolyn Bock (Ginni), Davini Malcolm (co-director, executive producer, Lulu Finchampstead), Janet Watson Cruz (Anina), Martine Wolff (DoP), Mariah Mannae (producer, Stephanie Finchampstead) and Francesca Arena (Jacqui)

**“I think Love, Tea & Epiphany will be a good flavoursome brew.”**

by MATTHEW EELES

A female driven comedy drama about the realisation of true love and the discovery of ones self is filming in Melbourne.

Love Tea & Epiphany follows the story of three women and their best friends throughout different stages of their lives and the pivotal choices they make when faced with love, loss, art and grief.

It is an exploration of humanity, the sisterhood and the courage it takes to go after the life we desire, and delves deep into the cycles of life carried through each generation.

At the core of the ever evolving moments along the way are the sisterhood and a good cup of tea.

Love Tea & Epiphany is co-directed by actor-turned-director Davini Malcolm (Wentworth) and multi-instrumentalist musician and composer, Probir Geoffrey Dutt. The film will mark the feature film debut for Davini.

“Having six female lead characters, it was imperative to have female voices leading the way behind the camera also,” Davini tells Cinema Australia. “We have an entirely female camera department which has brought artistry, authenticity, truth and discovery to the space.”

“It’s great to be involved in a film that pushes the boundaries of Australian arthouse cinema in a way I think Paul Cox would be proud of,” adds Probir.

Frankie J Holden (associate producer, Stanley) with Mariah Mannae (producer, Stephanie Finchampstead.

Love Tea & Epiphany stars an array of seasoned Australian acting talent and high profile emerging actors including Davini, Luca Sardelis (Storm Boy), Mariah Mannae (Westermarck Effect), Dennis Coard (Predestination), Carolyn Bock (Neighbours), Jordan Fraser-Trumble (The Legend of Ben Hall), Wallis Murphy-Munn (The Siege of Robin Hood), Brooke Lee, Sophia Jean, and Australian acting legend, Frankie J Holden, who is also an associate producer on the film.

“It feels great to be working on another all-Australian project about real and recognisable characters with relatable joys and challenges,” Frankie tells Cinema Australia.

“I’m also glad to be helping bring a totally independent project to fruition. We all know how much work it is to get a film up and this team of collaborators have put years of their lives into this. I think Love, Tea & Epiphany will be a good flavoursome brew.”

Currently midway through production, Love Tea & Epiphany is produced by two of the films stars Jordan Fraser Trumble and Mariah Mannae.

“Davini and Probir have an incredible balance of both the technical and artistic vision of the film,” says Mariah. “Their sensibilities and nuances combined are a dream combo for any actor. It’s been beautiful to watch the magic unfold from the early drafts to the raw moments that have instinctively developed on set. Probir and Davini co-direct in a collaborative and fresh way that gives everyone the invitation to discover the depths and humanity of this world.”

“The ethos of the film have been at the heart of everything we do, where love, generosity and respect are at the forefront of the creative process,” Jordan adds.

Keep an eye on cinemaaustralia.com.au for more Love Tea & Epiphany updates.